One definition of "bread" is "sustenance".
That means it is needed nourishment to live.
I just received news that my little 86 year old friend, Jeanie, has died. I am so glad she had a quick and easy passing, but I will miss her. She was one special lady and a role model. I've known this great lady for 50 years or more. When I was trying to find a way to commemorate her life, I thought of this scripture: "She eateth not the bread of idleness."
She was old school; she and my mother shared a lot of the same strong principles of life and also were professional in crafts, especially quilting. I never knew these women to just sit. I have quilts from them both that will always grace my home. These women were engaged in living and giving. And while they lived, they laughed! They were a joy to be with!
I spent many nights with my friend, Ruth, as a recipient of her mother's hospitality; this very industrious woman. We shared wonderful, home cooked meals, preserved from the garden. Their place was surrounded with warm and comfortable handmade treasures. Her daughters displayed a beautiful wardrobe designed and sewn by their talented mother. Her husband adored her and she was one of the happiest and most positive people I have ever known. Then, she loved to have fun!
A quote that relates to this loving woman: "Love is the bread of life. You have to make it every day if you want it fresh." She lived her life baking, eating and sharing her bread of love. I have been a recipient of it!
Every single time I saw her, I ran for that big hug and smile. She outlived my mother and was another "mom" for me though I didn't see her nearly often enough.
After being married for long years, raising a wonderful family, and transitioning into widowhood, she didn't sit down and twiddle her thumbs. She never ate the bread of idleness. She kept baking. Literally and otherwise. She worked at the local library. She made baby quilts for the newborn at the hospital. She was involved in community and church on a large scale, loving and giving til her dying day! Everyone, old and young alike, loved this vibrant woman!
Her happiness and contentment was created by choosing to eat the right kind of bread. On a literal level, her cinnamon rolls melted in my mouth. I didn't need the recipe; they were unique to her. On a life learning level, I do intend to keep her recipe for living right out there on my cabinet top! I want it to be a reminder to bake it fresh every day!
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